Los Angeles, CA – The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR) is reporting that a Turkish parliamentary commission has approved a proposal allowing Turkey to block internet sites that are deemed insulting to the founder of modern Turkey. The proposal, if enacted into law, would effectively block an ANCA-WR video posted on YouTube that discusses the Turkish denial of the Armenian Genocide.

“The Internet is being held hostage in Turkey,” remarked ANCA-WR Executive Director Andrew Kzirian. “The fact that our ANCA-WR video would be blocked by Turkish censors shows the world the intent of the Turkish government regarding free speech and free press. Even the mention of the Armenian Genocide in our video would be cause enough for Turkish censors to block our link on YouTube,” added Kzirian.

The Turkish Parliament plans to vote on the proposal to block access to YouTube videos, like the ANCA-WR’s, though a firm date for a vote has not been announced. Last year a Turkish court generated worldwide headlines by temporarily barring access to Google Inc.’s YouTube.

The Armenian National Committee of America is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.